The Surprising Plant-Based Capital of Europe
Traditional Central European culinary history is undeniably pork- and lard-centric (goulash, schnitzel, roast pork knuckles). However, modern Central European cities have developed some of the most progressive, budget-friendly vegan and vegetarian scenes in the world. In fact, Warsaw and Berlin are consistently ranked among the top five vegan-friendly cities globally.
Safe Traditional Dishes to Order
- Poland: Pierogi z kapustą i grzybami (dumplings with sauerkraut and forest mushrooms), Pierogi z jagodami (sweet blueberry pierogi), and Barszcz (beetroot soup, verify vegetable broth).
- Czechia: Smažený sýr (fried Edam cheese served with tartar sauce and boiled potatoes), Bramboráky (garlic potato pancakes).
- Spain: Tortilla de patatas (Spanish potato and egg omelet), Pimientos de Padrón (blistered green peppers with sea salt), Gazpacho (cold tomato soup).
- Hungary: Gombapaprikás (mushroom paprikash simmered with sour cream and dumplings).
The HappyCow App
Always download the free HappyCow app or bookmark the website. In cities like Warsaw, Berlin, Prague, and Budapest, you will find entire dedicated vegan burger joints, ramen shops, and plant-based bakeries serving generous meals for €6 to €9.